1990 E. Pira & Figli (Chiara Boschis) Barolo

The 1990 Barolo Riserva is a very special wine that is living a true moment of splendor right now. Back in 1990, winemaker Chiara Baschis sourced fruit from Cannubi, San Lorenzo and Via Nuova and she remembers that fruit was crushed by bare feet. This vintage marks the year that Chiara took the reins of this estate and one of the changes she made in 1990 was the introduction of extra barrique aging. The Barolo Riserva sees three years in large oak casks plus six months in barrique. This choice would forever link this feisty female winemaker to the group of Nebbiolo innovators known as the “Barolo Boys.” The wine is beautifully redolent of licorice and menthol notes that rise elegantly from the glass. The bouquet also delivers sweet tones of dried apricot and candied orange, although it doesn’t feel at all weighed down by excessive or unpleasant oxidation. In fact, the wine is remarkably well-preserved with bright energy and personality. Try decanting this wine 12 hours prior to drinking. Drink: 2014-2028.